DULWICH ORTHODONTIC CENTRE
Fixed appliances
METAL, GOLD & CERAMIC BRACKETS
Fixed appliances are known to most people as ‘train track’ braces. Brackets are stuck onto the front of the teeth with a wire inserted through the brackets to help create the tension and straighten the teeth.
As well as traditional metal braces, gold brackets are also available. Patients can often choose coloured bands to place over brackets which are popular with teenagers wanting to personalise their brace. For a more discreet option, ceramic (tooth coloured) brackets are available.
Metal braces are still widely use and are very effective. Modern technologies and techniques mean these braces are smaller, more comfortable and often faster than they used to be.
Types of Fixed Appliances
There are a variety of fixed appliances available. We will be happy to discuss these with you and give you more information during your initial consultation.
Metal brackets with colours
The traditional metal "train track" braces consist of small metal brackets which are fitted to the front of your teeth with a wire running between them kept in place by small elastic bands.
You can choose different coloured bands to suit your taste, or maybe your favourite football team!
Gold brackets
As well as coloured bands, gold appliance systems are also available, such as the ‘3M Unitek Victory Series’ 24K gold plated brackets.
These can be complimented with gold wires which can provide an alternative to the traditional stainless steel look.
Ceramic brackets
Clear fixed braces are a great cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces. They are a similar size and shape to metal braces but the brackets are tooth coloured or clear so that they blend in with the natural colour of your teeth.
Many patients prefer ceramic braces to metal braces as they are much less noticeable however they do cost more and are only available on a private basis.
Self Ligating brackets
Self ligating braces are a more modern alternative to traditional 'train track' metal braces. As with traditional metal braces, there are several variations. They use small metal clips to keep the wire in place instead of elastic bands - self ligating means that the bracket can basically tie itself to the archwire.
Self ligating braces are designed to be more comfortable and can reduce treatment times because the wires don't need to be tightened at each appointment.
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If you are a dentist referring a patient to us, you can rest assured that they will be receiving an exceptionally high standard of care, from a dental specialist who is highly skilled and experienced in their chosen field. You can relax, knowing that your patients are in very good hands.
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